What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cheerleading Coach position at PFEIFFER UNIVERSITY?
Position Summary
Pfeiffer University seeks an energetic, student-centered, and highly organized professional to serve as the Head Cheer, Dance, and Mascot Coach. This position is' responsible for the leadership, administration, recruitment, development, and daily operation of the University's cheerleading, dance, and mascot programs. The coach will cultivate a positive team culture that supports athletic excellence, school spirit, student leadership, and engagement within the campus and surrounding community.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to the mission and values of Pfeiffer University while fostering an inclusive environment that promotes student-athlete success academically, socially, and personally.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Program
Leadership and Development
- Plan, organize, and direct all aspects of the cheer, dance, and mascot programs.
- Develop and implement practice plans, training schedules, game-day preparations, and performance routines.
- Teach and supervise proper techniques, safety procedures, conditioning, and skill development.
- Coordinate mascot appearances and oversee mascot training, performance standards, and community engagement activities.
- Maintain a positive team culture emphasizing sportsmanship, leadership, accountability, and teamwork.
Recruitment and Retention
- Identify, recruit, and retain qualified student-athletes who align with the University's academic and athletic standards.
- Annually recruit 5-7 cheer and 5-7 dance team members annually.
- Maintain cheer roster of 20-25 and dance team roster of 20-25 annually.
- Build relationships with high school coaches, dance studios, cheer programs, and prospective students.
- Coordinate recruiting visits, auditions, tryouts, and scholarship recommendations, as applicable.
Game Day and Event Management
- Coordinate cheer, dance, and mascot participation at athletic contests, campus events, alumni functions, and community outreach activities.
- Ensure programs contribute positively to fan engagement and school spirit.
- Work collaboratively with Athletics, Student Affairs, Admissions, and University Marketing to support institutional initiatives.
Community Outreach
- Serve as an ambassador for Pfeiffer University by fostering positive relationships, organizing and partnering with local schools, youth organizations, community groups, and alumni.
- Develop and coordinate community engagement initiatives that promote the University's spirit programs and enhance the institution's visibility throughout the region.
- Coordinate appearances by cheer, dance, and mascot team members at campus, community, and charitable events.
- Collaborate with Admissions, Advancement, Student Affairs, Athletics, and Marketing to support enrollment initiatives, fundraising activities, and institutional events.
- Cultivate partnerships with local schools, businesses, and civic organizations to create opportunities for engagement, service, and program growth.
- Track and report community outreach activities and their impact on student development, recruitment, and institutional engagement goals.
Student Development
- Mentor student-athletes and support their academic success, personal growth, and leadership development.
- Monitor academic progress and encourage adherence to University and departmental expectations.
- Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and integrity.
Administration and Compliance
- Manage program budgets, purchasing, travel arrangements, uniforms, equipment, and inventory.
- Ensure compliance with NCAA, conference, University, and departmental policies and procedures.
- Maintain accurate records, rosters, participation forms, and required certifications.
- Coordinate fundraising and community engagement efforts as appropriate.
Safety and Risk Management
- Enforce all safety standards and best practices for cheerleading, dance, and mascot activities.
- Ensure appropriate supervision during practices, performances, travel, and events.
- Maintain current certifications as required, including CPR, First Aid, and safety training.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Demonstrated coaching or leadership experience in cheerleading, dance, spirit programs, or related activities.
- Knowledge of stunt progression, choreography, performance preparation, and safety protocols.
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
- Valid driver's license and ability to meet University driving requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Collegiate coaching experience in cheer, dance, or spirit programs.
- Experience recruiting student-athletes at the collegiate level.
- Current safety certifications through recognized cheer or spirit organizations.
- Experience managing mascot programs and game-day entertainment initiatives.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Commitment to student development and academic success.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with campus stakeholders.
- Excellent event planning and organizational abilities.
- Understanding of NCAA regulations and collegiate athletics operations.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to demonstrate and instruct cheerleading, dance, and mascot techniques.
- Ability to lift, spot, and assist participants safely during practices and performances.
- Ability to stand, walk, and actively participate in practices, events, and travel.